Are you ready to dive back into the thrilling world of Riot Games, but finding yourself stuck because Riot Vanguard just isn't cooperating after you uninstalled it? Don't fret! Many players encounter this hiccup, and the good news is that it's usually a straightforward fix. Let's get you back in the game with a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to reinstalling Riot Vanguard properly.
The Great Reinstallation: Bringing Riot Vanguard Back to Life
Riot Vanguard, Riot Games' proprietary anti-cheat software, is essential for playing games like VALORANT and League of Legends. When you uninstall it, or if something goes wrong during a previous uninstall, the game client often struggles to reinstall it automatically. This guide will walk you through ensuring a clean slate and a successful reinstallation.
 |
| How To Install Riot Vanguard After Uninstall |
Step 1: Let's Talk About Why You're Here!
Before we jump into the technicalities, tell me: What prompted you to uninstall Riot Vanguard in the first place? Were you experiencing issues like system performance problems, conflicts with other software, or simply taking a break from Riot Games? Understanding the "why" can sometimes give us clues if we encounter further issues. Regardless, you're here to get it back, and we'll make sure that happens!
Step 2: Ensuring a Clean Uninstall (Even if You Already Did!)
Sometimes, an uninstall isn't as "clean" as we'd like. Residual files or services can linger and cause problems with a fresh installation. This step is crucial for a smooth reinstallation.
Sub-heading 2.1: Closing All Riot-Related Processes
Before attempting any reinstallation, it's vital to ensure no Riot Games processes are running in the background. This includes the game client itself (Valorant, League of Legends), the Riot Client, and any Vanguard services.
Press
Ctrl + Shift + Escto open your Task Manager.Go to the Processes tab.
Look for anything related to "Riot Games," "VALORANT," "League of Legends," or "Riot Vanguard."
Right-click on each of these processes and select "End task".
Also, check your system tray (the icons near your clock on the taskbar). If you see the Riot Vanguard icon (often a red shield), right-click it and select "Exit Vanguard", then confirm with "Yes."
Sub-heading 2.2: Verifying Vanguard's Uninstallation from Apps & Features
QuickTip: Break down long paragraphs into main ideas.
Even if you think it's gone, double-check!
Press the
Windows key + Ito open Settings.Click on "Apps", then select "Installed apps" (or "Apps & features" on older Windows versions).
In the search bar, type "Riot Vanguard".
If "Riot Vanguard" appears in the list, click on the three dots next to it (or click on it and select "Uninstall"), then click "Uninstall" again to confirm.
Follow any on-screen prompts and grant administrator permissions if asked.
Sub-heading 2.3: Manual Deletion of Residual Files (If Necessary)
Occasionally, some files might remain even after the uninstallation process. This step addresses those stubborn remnants.
Open File Explorer (you can press
Windows key + E).Navigate to
C:\Program Files\.Look for a folder named "Riot Vanguard".
If you find it, right-click on the folder and select "Delete". If prompted, grant administrator permissions.
Empty your Recycle Bin after deletion.
Optional but recommended: Also check these locations and delete any Riot Games folders you find:
%AppData%(type%appdata%in the File Explorer address bar and press Enter)%LocalAppData%\Riot Games(type%localappdata%\Riot Gamesin the File Explorer address bar and press Enter)%ProgramData%\Riot Games(type%programdata%\Riot Gamesin the File Explorer address bar and press Enter)
Sub-heading 2.4: Running Command Prompt Commands for Service Deletion
This is a more advanced step, but it helps ensure that Vanguard's services are completely removed from your system.
Press the
Windows key, type "cmd" in the search bar.Right-click on "Command Prompt" and select "Run as administrator".
In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands one by one, pressing
Enterafter each:sc delete vgcsc delete vgk
You should see a message confirming the service deletion.
Step 3: A Fresh Start – Restart Your PC!
This step is not optional! After performing the clean-up, it's absolutely crucial to restart your computer. This allows your system to clear any lingering processes or cached data related to Riot Vanguard, ensuring a truly clean slate for the reinstallation.
Step 4: Triggering the Reinstallation
Now that your system is clean, the reinstallation of Riot Vanguard is usually triggered automatically by launching a Riot game that requires it.
QuickTip: Skip distractions — focus on the words.
Sub-heading 4.1: Launching Your Riot Game
Open the Riot Games client (e.g., the VALORANT launcher or League of Legends client).
When you launch the game, the client should detect that Riot Vanguard is missing or not properly installed.
You will likely see a prompt or a progress bar indicating that Riot Vanguard is being installed or updated. Do NOT interrupt this process!
Sub-heading 4.2: Handling Potential Prompts and Updates
 |
The Riot client might ask for administrator permissions to install Vanguard. Always grant these permissions.
Allow the client to download and install all necessary files. This might take a few minutes depending on your internet speed.
Step 5: The Final Restart (Yes, Another One!)
Once the Riot client indicates that Vanguard has finished installing, it will almost certainly prompt you to restart your computer again. This final reboot is essential for Riot Vanguard to fully integrate with your system and begin running as an anti-cheat service.
Restart your PC as prompted.
Step 6: Verifying the Reinstallation and Getting Back to Gaming
After the final restart, you should be ready to jump back into your game!
Launch your Riot Game client again.
You should see the Riot Vanguard icon in your system tray (bottom-right corner of your taskbar). This indicates that Vanguard is running correctly.
Log in to your game and enjoy!
Troubleshooting Common Reinstallation Issues
Even with a detailed guide, sometimes things don't go exactly as planned. Here are some common issues and quick fixes:
"We couldn't install a required dependency" or similar error: This usually means the clean-up in Step 2 wasn't entirely successful. Go back and thoroughly repeat Step 2 and Step 3.
Vanguard won't update/install after launching the game:
Temporarily disable your antivirus/firewall: Sometimes, security software can block Vanguard's installation. Remember to re-enable them after successful installation.
Run the game client as administrator: Right-click your game shortcut and select "Run as administrator."
Clear DNS Cache: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
ipconfig /flushdnsthennetsh winsock reset.
Persistent issues/Error Codes (VAN -1, VAN 57, VAN 81, etc.): These often indicate a deeper problem.
Update your Windows OS: Ensure your Windows is fully updated.
Update your graphics drivers: Outdated drivers can cause conflicts.
Perform a Clean Boot: This helps identify if other software is interfering. Search "how to perform a clean boot in Windows" for instructions.
Check TPM 2.0 and UEFI (for Windows 11 users): Some Vanguard errors (like VAN9001, VAN9002) are related to these settings in your BIOS. Consult your motherboard manual or manufacturer's website for how to enable them.
Contact Riot Support: If all else fails, Riot Games Support has dedicated teams to help with these complex issues. Provide them with detailed information about the steps you've taken and any error codes you're receiving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
QuickTip: Repetition signals what matters most.
How to know if Riot Vanguard is running?
You can check your system tray (the area near the clock on your Windows taskbar). If Riot Vanguard is running, you'll see a red shield icon. You can also open Task Manager and look for "Riot Vanguard" processes.
How to manually run the Riot Vanguard installer?
While typically triggered automatically by the game client, you can sometimes find the installer in your game directory. For VALORANT, it's usually located at C:\Riot Games\VALORANT\live\Riot Vanguard\vgk.msi. You can try running vgk.msi as administrator.
How to fix "Vanguard Not Initialized" error?
This usually means Vanguard didn't start properly. The primary fix is to restart your PC. If that doesn't work, perform a clean uninstall (Step 2) and reinstall (Steps 4-5).
How to disable Riot Vanguard temporarily?
You can right-click the Riot Vanguard icon in your system tray and select "Exit Vanguard." However, you will need to restart your computer to re-enable it and play Riot Games.
How to check for conflicting software with Riot Vanguard?
Tip: Focus on sections most relevant to you.
Temporarily disable other anti-cheat software, VPNs, and overlay programs. Performing a "clean boot" of Windows can help identify if a specific background application is causing a conflict.
How to update Riot Vanguard?
Riot Vanguard updates automatically when you launch a Riot game. If it's not updating, ensure you have a stable internet connection and try restarting your computer or reinstalling it as per this guide.
How to allow Riot Vanguard through my firewall?
Go to your Windows Defender Firewall (or your third-party firewall software settings). Look for "Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall" and ensure both the Riot Client and Riot Vanguard are allowed for private and public networks.
How to deal with Riot Vanguard causing blue screens of death (BSOD)?
BSODs with Vanguard can indicate deeper system issues. Ensure all your drivers (especially graphics and chipset) are up to date. Run a memory diagnostic tool and check your hard drive for errors. If it persists, a clean Windows installation might be necessary, but contact Riot Support first.
How to reinstall Riot Vanguard without reinstalling the entire game?
Generally, launching the game after uninstalling Vanguard will prompt only Vanguard to reinstall. You don't usually need to uninstall and reinstall the entire game unless specifically instructed by Riot Support for a very persistent issue.
How to contact Riot Games Support for Vanguard issues?
Visit the official Riot Games Support website (support.riotgames.com), select the relevant game (e.g., VALORANT or League of Legends), and look for the "Submit a Ticket" option. Provide them with as much detail as possible, including any error codes you've encountered.
 |
